Gerontology is a discipline with a very strong interdisciplinary orientation - ageing can probably only be understood through a synergy-rich linking of different fields of study. In this fully revised second edition, this book - first published in 2004 - places the full emphasis on the interdisciplinary nature of gerontology. Psychological, sociological, biological, geriatric, gerontopsychiatric aspects, as well as aspects from other fields, are incorporated into the presentation of basic theoretical, empirical and methodological issues in gerontology. In addition, the social importance of gerontology and its history from ancient times to the present day are also brought out - before the final chapter asks, 'Quo Vadis Gerontology?' Overall, the book provides a compact system of arrangement for today=s deluge of concepts, theories, findings and interventional options in gerontology.

Prof. Hans-Werner Wahl is Director of the Department of Psychological Ageing Research in the Psychological Institute at the University of Heidelberg. Prof. Vera Heyl teaches and carries out research at the Institute for Special Education at the College of Education in Heidelberg.

Leseprobe